Another sporting history beckons as the Federal Capital City, Abuja, bubble ahead of the maiden international African Chovken championship billed to hold between November 5 and 8.
Chairman of the African Region of the International Chovken Federation (ICF), Nura Sani Kangiwa , stated that Nigeria has been selected to host the maiden regional continental championship-a milestone event expected to attract teams from across the continent and spotlight the country’s equestrian sports capabilities.
Kangiwa listed continental sporting power houses like Egypt, Morocco, South Africa and Ghana as the other countries expected to vie for honours during the four days African festival in Nigeria.
He also confirmed that the sporting fiesta would hold at the foremost Guards Polo Resort in Abuja, stating that choice of Nigeria as first ever African host of the glamorous event, follows the country’s sterling performance at the maiden International Chovken Championship held in Baku, Azerbaijan last year, where Nigeria finished third in pool of 10 countries from across the world.
“Hosting this championship will not only boost Nigeria’s image internationally but also stimulate interest and investment in equestrian sports across the country,” Kangiwa said. “Countries like Kenya, and several others have already expressed readiness to participate.
“We are working with private and public stakeholders to ensure a seamless hosting experience. This is a legacy project that could redefine equestrian sports in Nigeria and indeed Africa,” he added.
Kangiwa pointed out that since the game of Chovken resonates with Nigeria’s globally revered rich cultural and heritage, the organizers would be devoting a whole day during the event as Cultural Day where all the participants, invited dignitaries ICF officials and thousands of enthusiasts and tourists would witness the best of Nigerian cultural displays.
The proprietor of NSK Polo Ranch who recently led a delegation on a courtesy call to the leadership of the National Sports Committee (NSC) as part of the build up to this continental event, said championship will bring together the finest riders and teams from across the continent and beyond, showcasing the pinnacle of equestrian excellence.
NSC Chairman, Alhaji Dikko who received the delegation pledged the commission’s support, noting that hosting such an event aligns with the federal government’s goal of expanding the country’s sporting portfolio beyond mainstream events.
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“We are pleased to see a traditional and culturally rich sport like Chovken gaining ground in Nigeria,” the NSC boss said. “This championship is not just a sporting event—it’s an opportunity to showcase our hospitality, talent, and readiness to engage with global sporting communities.”
Chovken is an equestrian team sport with historical roots and striking resemblance to the popular Polo sport. The game is played by two teams of four horse riders who drive a small leather ball into an opponent’s goal using curved wooden mallets.
It is a fast-paced, strategic equestrian team sport with ancient roots —and a legacy that predates and inspired modern Polo.
While Polo became globally known through colonial expansion, Chovken evolved organically in the Caucasus and Central Asia, preserving its authenticity, ceremonial richness and deeper cultural resonance.
A typical Chovken match features two teams of four horse riders competing to score goals with a small leather ball and curved wooden mallets. It is played in two 15-minute halves. The sport was recently added to UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list, further elevating its global profile.
What distinguishes Chovken from Polo is its allowance for closer physical contact, open-field freedom, and more cultural expression in play, offering a sport that is both athletic and ceremonial.
Get ready for an unforgettable celebration of speed, skill, and tradition as the Nigerian team perfect strategies to conquer the continent and write country’s name on the sands of times as the first ever winner of the inaugural Chovken African championship